How does a ceramic coating work?

It's not a widely-known fact (yet), but Soft99 has been developing ceramic coatings for almost 25 years! G'ZOX is a premium ceramic coating brand under Soft99. Based on years of experience, let’s explain how ceramic coatings work and what they really are.

Protective coatings for car paint are a broad topic. Whether it’s popular waxes, “ceramics,” or modern technologies like graphene or elastomer coatings, paint protection is no longer just the domain of detailing nerds and enthusiasts.

More and more drivers are using them:

• those buying a new vehicle at a dealership,
• those wanting to maintain the aesthetics of a used car,
• those treating the car as an investment,
• supporters of the “do it once, do it right” approach.

No matter the motivation behind applying ceramic protection, a good example of this category of products is G’ZOX. But before we get into this Japanese brand, let’s cover the basics.

What is a ceramic coating and how does it work?

The main ingredient of ceramic coatings (also called quartz coatings) is silicon dioxide (SiO₂), which naturally occurs as quartz. Thanks to this, they form an exceptionally hard protective layer – usually with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. For comparison: a fingernail has a hardness of about 2, glass around 5, and a diamond 10, which means only another diamond can scratch it.

A ceramic coating on paint acts as an additional protective barrier, though it’s important to remember this is a chemical barrier, not a physical one. Even the best ceramic coating won’t prevent deep scratches.

The key properties of ceramic coatings include:

• hardness and resistance to micro-scratches,
• hydrophobicity – water and dirt slide off the surface,
• protection against UV radiation and paint oxidation,
• preservation of color depth and gloss.

Thanks to ceramics, the car not only looks better but is also easier to maintain – dirt doesn’t stick as strongly, and washing requires less chemistry and effort.

Applying a coating – why isn’t it simple?

Theoretically, a coating can be purchased and applied independently, but in practice, it’s a process that requires experience and proper facilities. Before application, the paint must be thoroughly cleaned and often corrected, even on a new car. Paint correction also removes micro-scratches and oxidation. Only after this painstaking preparation does the coating properly bond with the surface.

The most common mistakes are:

• applying the coating on dirty or poorly degreased paint,
• working in unsuitable conditions (too much humidity, low temperature),
• applying a layer that is too thick, which instead of protecting, creates unsightly marks or peels off.

An alternative to DIY application is leaving the job to professionals. For example, in European G'ZOX studios, the teams protecting vehicles are qualified experts: our Master Detailers undergo product and practical training in Japan, with specialists who have worked with G'ZOX coatings for over two decades.

It’s worth noting that G'ZOX coatings are not available as off-the-shelf products but only as part of detailing services. This ensures the car owner always gets a perfectly applied coating, without unpleasant surprises.

The Japanese school of detailing

Technology is one thing, but the success of a coating also depends on the philosophy of work. In Japan, detailing specialists developed many solutions that have become standard in the industry. For example, clay bars for deep cleaning paint from metallic deposits were first used in Japan.

So it’s no surprise that in Japan, a country with a strong emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene, perfection of execution and attention to detail are highly valued. G’ZOX, a Soft99 sub-brand, draws on this tradition, combined with over 70 years of experience in car care product manufacturing.

Detailer training takes place in Japan, where specialists learn not only how to apply coatings but also a holistic approach to the car. This shows that the product itself is only half the success – the rest depends on the person applying it.

G'ZOX: comprehensive protection beyond just paint

Quartz coatings are most often associated with bodywork, but modern detailing covers all parts of the car.

• windows – hydrophobic coatings like Prime View or Burst View. Repelling water and dirt improves visibility and makes cleaning easier,
• headlights – cleaning and protective agents like G'ZOX Light Cleaner & Coat delay lens hazing,
• wheels – G'ZOX Wheel Coat, resistant to high temperatures, protects against brake dust and makes cleaning easier even under extreme conditions,
• tires – G'ZOX Tire Coat restores a factory-fresh look, aiming for a neutral, elegant matte finish. The final effect resembles a brand-new tire,
• interior – multi-purpose G'ZOX Comfort Guard packages for leather and fabric upholstery protect against dirt and extend material lifespan.

The G’ZOX product range illustrates just how broad vehicle protection can be, and what elements can (and should) be protected.

How to choose the right quartz coating?

The ceramic coating market is very diverse: from basic coatings found in large supermarkets to premium ones available only as part of detailing services. When choosing, it’s worth paying attention to a few key aspects:

1. Declared durability – don’t trust manufacturers promising durability of over 5 years. Even a ceramic-protected car needs maintenance. Realistically, high-quality ceramic coatings protect for 2–3 years of careful vehicle use. In the case of “service-only coatings,” maintenance or inspection visits are often included in the package, extending the coating’s lifespan.
2. Application and aftercare – advanced car care enthusiasts may apply coatings themselves, but the best results come from application in a certified detailing studio, ideally after paint correction. A good coating should be certified and covered by a warranty. Any resulting check-ups or top-ups are an additional plus.
3. Additional properties – many ceramic coatings have unique features. Particularly interesting are the relatively lesser-known coatings that provide so-called sheeting, like G'ZOX Real Glass Coat – Class H. This form of hydrophobicity causes water to collect into sheets and flow off in larger patches rather than beads.

The G’ZOX example shows that quartz coatings can be part of a broader car care system. Regardless of brand, the key is an informed approach – a coating is not a magic shield, but an advanced tool that requires proper application and regular maintenance. That’s why it’s worth considering proven solutions. More information on G'ZOX can be found on the G'ZOX Europe official website.